In the 17th Century one of the most hated names in England was Baron George Jeffreys, more commonly known as 'the hanging judge'.

His reputation for ruthlessness was gained at the 'Bloody Assize', when he dealt savagely with people who had been involved with the Duke of Monmouth's unsuccessful rebellion against James II. 320 people were executed by his order and hundreds more transported to the colonies including people sold into slavery.

The illustration shows a dramatic turn in fortune. James II had abdicated and William was now King. Jeffreys attempted to flee the country disguised as a seaman but was arrested at Wapping. He was put in the Tower of London where he died in April 1689.

From the series Man of the Week published in Look and Learn # 309, 16th December 1967. zCrime/Horror zHistorical zPolitical